DANCE TIGHTS AND OTHER GARMENTS WITH INTEGRATED, APERTURED FOOT COVERINGS

Abstract

Dancing tights and like garments with integrated sock, the sock including selectively placed openings at the heel, ball of foot, and toe area to expose the heel and at least substantial portions of the ball of the foot, and one or more toes, and being configured to maintain secure placement on the foot.

Claims

1. A garment comprising a pair of leg portions and a sock integrated on each leg portions, the sock including selectively placed openings at a heel area, a ball of foot area, and a toe area and configured to expose a substantial portion of the heel and at least substantial portions of the ball of the foot, and one or more toes of an intended user, and at least the sock being configured with elastic materials to maintain secure placement on a foot of the intended user, and wherein each sock includes a midfoot portion that covers a majority of the underside of the midfoot area of each sock.

2. A garment, comprising, a pair of leg portions each having an integrated sock, the sock having an open toe area configured to allow for exposure and mobility of one or more toes; an open heel area configured to allow for exposure and mobility of a heel of an intended user; an open ball of the foot area configured to allow for exposure and mobility of a ball of the foot of the intended user, and wherein each sock includes a midfoot portion that covers a majority of the underside of the midfoot area of each sock.

3. The garment of claim 2 further comprising a body encircling portion integrated with the leg portions.

4. The garment of claim 3 wherein the body encircling portion and leg portions are configured as tights with an elastic fit on the intended user.

5. The garment of claim 4 wherein the sock is configured as a thong-style construction with a vertically oriented post element that spans a front opening at the toe area to fit between adjacent toes to help secure the sock in place during movement.

6. The garment of claim 5 wherein the post element is a flexible strap or band, and wherein the post element is arranged to correspond to an area between the intended user's first and second toes.

7. The garment of claim 5 wherein the sock is configured with one or more front openings, each configured for receiving and exposing one or more toes of a user.

8. The garment of claim 4 wherein the garment comprises an elastic fabric to provide the elastic fit.

9. The garment of claim 8 wherein the garment comprises a fabric of Nylon and/or spandex (elastane).

10. The garment of claim 8 wherein reinforced stitching is provided around the open toe, heel, and/or ball of the foot areas.

11. The garment of claim 1 wherein the garment is in the form of leggings.

12. The garment of claim 1 wherein the sock further comprises a coating or patterning of elastomeric material on a surface of the sock.

13. The garment of claim 12 wherein the elastomeric material is thermally fused to the sock.

14. The garment of claim 12 wherein the elastomeric material is disposed on an outward facing surface of the sock, the outward-facing surface being configured to a ground surface when worn.

15. The garment of claim 12 wherein the elastomeric material is disposed on an inward facing surface of the sock, the inward-facing surface of the sock being configured to face the user when worn.

16. The garment of claim 12 wherein the elastomeric material is disposed on an outward-facing top and/or side surface of the sock.

17. The garment of claim 3 wherein the elastomeric material is disposed on an inward or outward facing surface of the garment.

18.-20. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The appended figures show embodiments according to the inventive subject matter, unless noted as showing prior art.

[0020] FIG. 1 shows a front, left side perspective of tights with integrated socks.

[0021] FIG. 2 shows a left (lateral) side view of the sock portion of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the sock of FIG. 1

[0023] FIG. 4 shows a section top view of the sock of FIG. 1

[0024] FIG. 5 shows an anatomical mapping of a typical foot.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Representative embodiments according to the inventive subject matter are shown in FIGS. 1-4, wherein the same or generally similar features share common reference numerals.

[0026] The inventive subject matter is generally directed to tights having integrated, apertured foot coverings for dancing and other fitness and athletic activities. The tights are designed to cover the foot and ankle region while leaving toes, heel, and ball of the foot areas exposed.

[0027] Applicant reserves the right to claim design patent protection for the full tight shown or the sock portion to the ankle area and the remainder of the tights being environment.

[0028] As used herein, a user or wearer is the person for whom a garment is sized and shaped to fit. For example, a medium or US size 8 pants is intended for someone who fits that size. Likewise with respect to the sock portion, if the sock portion is a standard US size 8, it is intended for someone with a size US 8 foot and shoe of size 8. Anatomical references to areas of the garment or sock are intended to generally correspond to or mimic areas of the intended user's anatomy. For example, a forefoot region or portion of the sock maps to the forefoot area of the intended user's foot; an arch region or portion maps to the arch of the intended user's foot; a thigh region or portion maps to a thigh area of the intended wearer's thigh; a pelvis or buttocks region or portion maps to a pelvic or buttocks area of the intended wearer's pelvis or buttocks and so forth.

[0029] As is generally known, tights are made of a flexible, typically elastic fabric, such as nylon or spandex, that closely conforms to the intended user's body. As used herein, tights means not only traditional tights but also yoga and Barre pants. Tights, as used herein, also includes leggings that extend the knees of the intended user. Tights and similar garments typically have an uninterrupted, continuous front and rear pelvic area, i.e., they are flyless or otherwise free of openings and associated closure systems. A general description of dance tights is as follows:

[0030] Dance tights or leotards are specialized garments worn by dancers to provide coverage, support, and flexibility during dance performances and rehearsals. They are typically made from stretchy materials to allow for a full range of motion while maintaining a close fit to the body. Dance tights are designed to cover specific anatomical areas to provide support and enhance the aesthetics of dance movements. Anatomical areas covered by dance tights typically include: [0031] 1. Legs: Dance tights cover the entire length of the legs, from the waist down to the ankles. This coverage helps to streamline the appearance of the legs and provides support for muscles during dance movements. [0032] 2. Feet: Some dance tights may include a reinforced or thicker material around the feet area to provide added durability and support. This is especially common in tights designed for ballet and other forms of dance that involve extensive footwork. [0033] 3. Hips and Waist: Dance tights typically extend up to the waist, providing coverage and support for the hips and lower abdomen. The waistband of the tights helps to secure them in place during movement. [0034] 4. Buttocks: The fabric of dance tights conforms to the shape of the buttocks, providing coverage and support while allowing for freedom of movement.

[0035] The following description and accompanying figures disclose a garment 1 having a representative configuration of a pair of stretch tights for dance that substantially conform to, or follow the body contours of, an intended user. The principles of the inventive subject matter may apply to other garments, including the following: [0036] 1. Leggings: Leggings are close-fitting garments that cover the legs and typically extend from an area above the knees to the feet. They are often made from stretchy materials like spandex or nylon and are commonly worn for exercise, casual wear, or as a fashion statement. [0037] 2. Yoga Pants: Yoga pants are designed for yoga practice but are also worn for various other activities such as exercise, lounging, or running errands. They are usually made from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics and feature a wide waistband for comfort and support. [0038] 3. Compression Pants: Compression pants are tight-fitting, elastic garments that provide compression and support to the muscles during physical activity. They are often worn by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to improve circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and enhance performance. [0039] 4. Running Tights: Running tights are similar to dance tights but are specifically designed for running and other high-impact activities. They are typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics with added features such as reflective accents for visibility in low-light conditions. [0040] 5. Cycling Shorts/Tights: Cycling shorts or tights are form-fitting garments designed for cyclists to wear during rides. They are usually made from stretchy materials and feature padding or chamois to provide comfort and protection during long hours in the saddle. [0041] 6. Thermal Tights: Thermal tights are designed to provide warmth and insulation during cold weather activities such as winter sports, hiking, or outdoor workouts. They are often made from thicker, insulating materials like fleece or thermal fabric.

[0042] These garments share similarities with dance tights in terms of their close fit, stretchy materials, and coverage of the legs, but they may have specific design features tailored to different activities and purposes. However, it is noted that the only practical difference between some such garments may be in name only, and the different garments may be made in the same way and using the same materials.

[0043] Accordingly, the inventive subject matter may be applied to a wide range of garment styles or configurations that are used for both athletic and non-athletic activities.

[0044] To illustrate the principles of the inventive subject matter, the following discussion will present an embodiment of dance tights. However, this is a non-limiting example, and other embodiments may vary from what is discussed and shown and still fall under the inventive subject matter.

[0045] Looking at FIGS. 1-5, garment 1 generally includes a pelvic region or portion 11 and a pair of right and left leg regions or portions 12. (As used herein, the terms region or portion are used interchangeably unless context indicates otherwise.) Pelvic region 11 has a configuration that substantially extends around and covers the front, side and back pelvic area of an individual, i.e., it is a body-encircling portion. Pelvic region 11 may include a waist encircling region or portion 14 with a waistband system 114 that defines an upper opening out of which a torso area of a user extends. Typically, the waistband system is based on an elastic structure such as a band. However, it may be based on inelastic structures such as drawstrings or belts.

[0046] An integrated sock 16 extends downwardly from each leg portion 12 forming a partial foot-covering region or portion of garment 1. The socks 16 have selectively configured and arranged apertures 18, 20, 22.

[0047] Aperture 18 is arranged at a heel area and configured to receive and expose a user's heel. Opening sizes in square centimeters can range from 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, or 100 or any range in between the upper and lower limits.

[0048] Aperture 20 is arranged under a user's forefoot area and configured to receive and expose some or all of a user's ball of the foot, as generally shown. The ball of the foot is responsible for bearing weight and providing balance.

[0049] The ball of the foot refers to the padded portion of the forefoot located just behind the toes. It is a crucial weight-bearing area during activities like standing, walking, and running. The bones, connective tissue, and boundaries of the ball of the foot include: [0050] 1. Metatarsal Bones: There are five metatarsal bones, one for each toe, that form the framework of the ball of the foot. They are long bones that articulate with the phalanges (toe bones) proximally and the midfoot bones distally. [0051] 2. Metatarsophalangeal Joints (MTP Joints): These are the joints formed between the heads of the metatarsal bones and the bases of the proximal phalanges. They allow for flexion, extension, and some degree of side-to-side movement of the toes. [0052] 3. Sesamoid Bones: These are two small, round bones embedded within the tendons of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle beneath the head of the first metatarsal bone. They provide leverage and protection to the tendon and help increase the mechanical advantage of the muscle. [0053] 4. Plantar Plate: This is a thick fibrocartilaginous structure that lies beneath the metatarsophalangeal joints and helps maintain the stability of these joints. [0054] 5. Transverse Metatarsal Ligament: This ligament connects the heads of the metatarsal bones and helps maintain the integrity of the transverse arch of the foot. [0055] 6. Plantar Aponeurosis (Plantar Fascia): This thick band of connective tissue spans the length of the foot, including the ball of the foot. It provides support to the arches of the foot and assists in weight distribution during movement.

[0056] Distal Boundary: The distal boundary of the ball of the foot is marked by the heads of the metatarsal bones. These are the rounded ends of the metatarsal bones that articulate with the bases of the proximal phalanges of the toes. This boundary extends to the region just proximal to the heads of the metatarsal bones, but not including the tips of the toes.

[0057] Proximal Boundary: The proximal boundary of the ball of the foot is the region where the metatarsal bones articulate with the midfoot bones. Specifically, this boundary extends from the bases of the metatarsal bones to their heads. It includes the articulations between the metatarsal heads and the cuneiform bones proximally, and the articulations with the midfoot bones such as the cuboid bone distally.

[0058] Medial-Lateral Boundaries: are the width of the foot from the distal to medial boundaries.

[0059] Aperture 20 generally is configured in a sock to correspond to and be coextensive with at least a substantial portion of the ball of the foot of the user. In the embodiment shown, aperture 20 is generally centered around at least a majority (i.e., at least 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% of length metatarsal bone(s) of the average user of a given foot size) of the 2nd-4th metatarsals of the foot. In other embodiments, opening 20 could be centered on at least a majority of all five metatarsals or any permutation of metatarsals. Instead of one opening, there could be two, three, four or five openings to achieve such permutations. Opening sizes in square centimeters can range from 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, or 100 or any range in between the upper and lower limits. Opening sizes will vary depending on sock size, number of metatarsals covered with generally a majority to all of each of 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 metatarsals being covered.

[0060] Aperture 22 is arranged at a toe area and configured to receive and expose all or a selected number of a user's toes. The exposed portion may be at least the distal phalanges. In other embodiments, opening 22 could be centered on just the hallux or at least a majority of all five toes or any permutation of toes. Instead of one opening, there could be two, three, four or five openings to achieve such permutations. For example, the Figures show that the front opening is defined but two openings: opening 22 exposes first to fourth toes and opening 23 exposes the fifth toe (hallux).

[0061] Opening sizes in square centimeters can range from 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72, 78, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, or 100 or any range in between the upper and lower limits.

[0062] It is to be understood that the tights and integrated sock shown in the Figures is a representative embodiment, and the size and shape of the openings may vary. For example, the openings shown need not be rounded but could have polygonal or other geometric shapes while still serving to expose relevant areas of foot anatomy and covering other areas.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5, encircled area 118 shows the portion of an anatomy generally exposed through aperture 18; encircled area 120 shows the portion of an anatomy (at the plantar side) generally exposed through aperture 20; and encircled area 122 shows the portion of an anatomy generally exposed through aperture 122.

[0064] The integrated sock can be same or different material as other portions of garment 1, and it can be in a unitary construction, e.g., a seamless, continuous knit or woven structure with leg portions 12 or a discrete structure attached to the leg portions. It can have different zones, e.g., stretch zone an inelastic zone, cushion, or comfort zone, a durability zone, a breathable zone, etc. For example, the underfoot side could have natural or artificial leather, or a rubbery or other rubbery polymer for traction, protection, and durability. Top and sides of the sock could be elastic to conform to the foot and for comfort. The top and sides could include inelastic materials or structures for support or durability, etc. For example, one or more vertical bands that are disposed along a side of the sock and spanning from the height of the side could help support a foot. A horizontal band or cuff could span the sides and rear ankle area above the top of opening 18 for support.

[0065] To provide certain functional or aesthetic attributes to the integrated socks or other area of the tights, a thermoplastic elastomeric material optionally may be heat fused or otherwise applied to selected areas of the base fabric for the sock or other portion of the garment. It may be applied to the inside and/or outside of the garment. For example, it may be applied in a continuous coating or pattern (e.g., a pattern of spaced-apart elements like dots) to a bottom (underfoot) side of the sock (sole portion) to provide outsole functions. On the foot-facing and foot-contacting surface of the sole portion, the elastomeric material may be provided in a pattern and locations that provide anti-slip functions for the foot so that the sock does not shift on the foot during activities. Side(s) portions of the sock may also be coated or patterned with elastomeric material to provide grip (e.g., for Barre or yoga), structural reinforcement, and/or aesthetic effects. The foot-facing side of the upper portion may also have a pattern of elastomeric material that is grippy and anti-slip so the upper does not shift on the user's foot.

[0066] The elastomeric material may be applied in thin layers that allow the sock compartment to remain flexible and follow the contours of the foot. The material may be applied in a liquid or solid phase. Example thermoplastic polymer materials include polyurethane, nylon, polyester, polyethylene, neoprene, and polyolefin. Liquid silicone rubbers although they may not technically be a thermoplastic elastomer may be considered as such for purposes of the inventive subject matter. The material may adhere to the surface of base sock fabric or other material and/or infuse into the base fabric or other base sock material.

[0067] Patterns and shapes of the elastomeric material may be defined in molds with defined patterns or shapes on sheet materials, which are die cut, laser cut, manually cut, etc. The processing of liquid materials into a pattern or shape may be by direct application to a base textile or by first forming the pattern or shape and then applying the part to the base material. Various techniques are known for fusing thermoplastic materials to textiles, including and heat sealing, high frequency welding, injection molding, heat/pressure molding, laser welding, impulse welding, and ultrasonic welding.

[0068] Turning now to the leg portions 12 with which the socks 16 integrate, the right and left leg regions or portions may be discrete elements assembled to the socks and body-encircling portion 11 or a continuation of the fabric used to form the socks and/or the body-encircling portion. The legs 12 may be generally tubular to receive the user's legs.

[0069] The right and left sides of the body-encircling portion 11 may be connected together at a front center seam 111 and is representative of one or more seams used to connect a plurality of patterned pieces assembled to form garment 1.

[0070] As commonly known, there is an anterior or front pelvic region and a posterior or back pelvic region. Leg regions 12 extend downward from opposite sides of pelvic region 11 and have a configuration that substantially extends around and covers upper leg areas of individual. Garment 1 may also be defined by multiple zones or panel portions.

[0071] The front pelvic region 11 typically but optionally has a flush finish. In this example, the front region has a waistband portion 14 that extends across the front pelvic region. The front pelvic region may be free of zippers, laces, gussets, buttons or other fly or waist closures that bulge and cause a non-flush surface with the general, front pelvic region (not counting any pockets that may be provided at the sides of the pelvic region). Although not shown, in other embodiments, all regions may be formed in a unitary, seamless construction. Consistent with a flyless embodiment, the waistband panel or zone may be a continuous, uninterrupted, flush structure that does not disengage or separate from itself, as would be the case with a conventional waistband having a waistband closure structure. (e.g., snaps or buttons) associated with a fly structure.

[0072] Garment 1 has a main body, which generally defines each of regions 11 and 12, that may be formed from one or more textile elements. If the body is formed of multiple elements, the elements may be joined through, for example, stitching, adhesives, bonding, and/or thermobonding. Some or all the body of garment 1 may be a unitary, seamless construction based on known weaving and knitting techniques for producing three-dimensional configurations.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the body of garment 1 is formed of one or more panels of drapable material that extend coplanarly around the parts of the body they surround. In such an embodiment, multiple panels can be joined edge-to-edge to create a coplanar outer surface construction across multiple body regions, e.g., the front and rear pelvic regions. In other embodiments, a single sheet or ply of drapable material surrounds such multiple body regions in a seamless construction. Any given panel can be made of single ply of material or multiple plies that are laminated together, e.g., a laminate of a durable outer material and an inner comfort liner. In other cases, a ply in the laminate could be a waterproof/breathable layer like a membrane of ePTFE.

[0074] The textile elements used to form any portion of garment 1 may be formed from any combination of 2-way or 4-way stretch textiles or non-stretch textiles. The 2-way stretch textiles may be configured into the garment to provide horizontal or vertical preferential directions of stretch. The 4-way stretch textiles may provide both vertical and horizontal directions of stretch. In addition to stretch materials that are made with elastic fibers, stretch may also be provided by fabrics constructed with inelastic fibers but formed in manner that provides mechanical stretch. For example, various known knit constructions can provide elastic stretch.

[0075] Although non-stretch textile elements may be used exclusively in garment 1, an advantage to stretch textile elements is that portions of regions of garment 1 will selectively, resiliently stretch or otherwise elongate to conform with movements of the user during activities, thereby providing less restriction and a greater freedom of movement during the activities. The textile elements may also be formed from either woven or knitted textiles. Although knitted textile elements may be utilized in garment 1, an advantage of woven textile elements relates to high durability and a low tendency to permanently deform when subjected to tensile forces (i.e., when stretched). In some configurations, portions of garment 1 may also include various appliqus, transfers, patches, indicia, tags, pulls, grommets, or other aesthetic or functional features. The garment may optionally include one or more pockets, which may have a body that overlaps the body of the garment or is formed behind the body, with just a slot on the body surface for accessing the pocket. (The latter approach would leave the garment with a flush finish in the pocket area.)

[0076] Materials used in the construction of dance tights vary depending on factors such as comfort, durability, and performance requirements. Common materials include:

[0077] Nylon: Nylon is a popular choice for dance tights due to its stretchiness, durability, and ability to wick away moisture. It provides a smooth and sleek appearance on the skin, making it ideal for dance performances.

[0078] Spandex/Lycra: Spandex, also known as Lycra, is a highly elastic material that is often blended with other fabrics to provide stretch and recovery properties. Spandex helps dance tights retain their shape and allows for a full range of motion during dance movements.

[0079] Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. They are often used in dance tights to provide a soft and smooth feel against the skin.

[0080] Mesh: Mesh panels or inserts may be incorporated into dance tights to provide ventilation and enhance breathability during intense dance sessions.

[0081] Means for forming and assembling dance tights include knitting and weaving. As indicated, tights and other garments may be formed from multiple flat, patterned pieces or as a unitary knit structure using techniques known in the art.

[0082] If formed of multiple pieces, the pieces can be assembled together using known techniques including traditional sewing techniques such as flatlock stitching or serging to create smooth, seamless seams that reduce chafing and irritation during movement. Additionally, elastic waistbands and reinforced stitching at stress points help to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for dancers.

[0083] Looking at suitable textile materials in more detail, as indicated above, the tights 1 or other kind of garment may be constructed from any number of known textile materials. The tights and any portion or region thereof can have multiple zones of varying materials and/or material or structural properties. Example materials include fabrics based on fibers of elastane, trixeta (e.g., Sorona brand fibers by DuPont), polyester, nylon, or fabrics having blends of such fibers, or lightweight neoprene. The tights or other kind of garment may be made in whole or part of elastic or inelastic material, with placement of selected materials in various arrangements. For example, tights or other kinds of garments may be made with varying zones of elastic and inelastic materials. For example, front, rear, waist and/or side zones may be made of an elastic fabric, such as a fabric having elastane or trixeta fibers, or elastic fiber blends. Suitable blends may have at least 2%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, or thereabout any such value, elastic fibers. The remainder may be natural and/or synthetic fabric such as polyester, nylon, cotton, or wool. In certain embodiments, the blend has 5%-20% elastic fibers, of thereabout such range. In one suitable embodiment, one or more of panels may consist of a fabric blend that is 90% polyester fibers/10% elastic fibers, or thereabout such values). And one or more of the panels consist of a relatively inelastic material that may have at least 50% of polyester, nylon, cotton, or wool. In some embodiments, the garment includes one or more front panels and a waist panel that are inelastic and one or more rear panels that are inelastic. The elastic panels or portions may be knit or woven 2-way or 4-way stretch materials, as noted earlier. The foregoing description is not intended to be limiting. For example, in other embodiments, all panels or portions may be elastic, or all panels or portions may be inelastic. As used herein, elasticity and inelasticity are relative terms that mean there is or is not appreciable stretch during expected conditions of use as active bodywear.

[0084] The elastic limit of elastic textiles can vary based on the specific material and its composition. As used herein, elastic means that it has 50% or greater elongation before breakage, and inelastic means under 50% elongation before breakage. Accordingly, elastic materials may have an elastic limit of 50%, 75%, 100%, 150%, 200%, 300% or higher.

[0085] FIG. 5 is an anatomical mapping of the foot. The forefoot includes the toes and metatarsals, and it provides the ground contact area of the ball of the foot. It consists of most of the bony architecture of the foot including phalanges to the toes, five metatarsal bones and the two sesamoid bones of the big toe joint. The midfoot is the intersection between the forefoot and rearfoot. Its anatomic location is at the peak or highest part of the arch and has important joints connecting it to the forefoot and the rearfoot region. It consists of five bones including three cuneiform bones, and the navicular and cuboid bones. The rearfoot connects to the midfoot and to the ankle and provides the ground contact area of the heel region of the foot. It consists of the bony architecture of the calcaneus and talus. Accordingly, in the inventive subject matter, the forefoot region of the sock refers generally to a portion of the sock receiving the toes as well as the metatarsals of the foot of a wearer. The midfoot region of the compartment refers generally to a portion of the compartment receiving the arch of the foot of a wearer. The rearfoot region of the compartment refers generally to a portion of the compartment receiving the heel of the wearer.

[0086] Persons skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and variations are possible in the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts and actions which have been described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the inventive subject matter, and that such modifications and variations do not depart from the spirit and scope of the teachings and claims contained therein.

[0087] Any patent and non-patent literature cited herein is hereby incorporated by references in its entirety for all purposes.

[0088] The principles described above about any particular example can be combined with the principles described regarding any one or more of the other examples. The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed innovations. Various modifications to those embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Thus, the claimed inventions are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular, such as by use of the article a or an is not intended to mean one and only one unless specifically so stated, but rather one or more. As used herein, and/or means and or or, as well as and and or.

[0089] All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout the disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the features described and claimed herein. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed as a means plus function claim under US patent law unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase means for or step for.

[0090] The inventor reserves the right to claim, without limitation, at least the following subject matter.